Green Bay Packers experienced a tumultuous first day of free agency, and now, fans face another blow as Aaron Jones makes his decision on his 2024 team.
NFL insider Dianna Russini from The Athletic revealed on Tuesday morning that Jones is set to sign a one-year contract with the Minnesota Vikings valued at $7 million.
Aaron Jones is expected to sign with the Vikings on a one-year deal for $7 million, according to sources.
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) March 12, 2024
Less than 24 hours after being released by the Packers, Jones, who was drafted by Green Bay in 2017, is now making the move to Minnesota. The Packers swiftly found a replacement, securing veteran running back Josh Jacobs on a four-year contract worth up to $48 million before parting ways with Jones.
Reportedly, the Packers had asked Jones to take a 50% pay cut to remain with the team, which he declined after having already taken a $5 million paycut the previous year. Subsequently, the Packers chose to focus on acquiring a new running back in free agency.
Joining the Vikings, Jones will be following a trend of former Packers players moving to their NFC North rival. Other notable players who made the switch include Brett Favre, Ryan Longwell, and Za’Darius Smith.
At 29 years old, Jones still has potential to contribute to the Vikings despite an injury-ridden 2023 season. Towards the end of the last regular season and during the playoffs, he showcased an impressive performance, rushing for over 100 yards in each of his last five games with an average of 5.7 yards per carry.
Packers fans are now hoping Jones won’t excel when facing his former team in the two upcoming games.
